Should You Buy a Leather Jacket a Size Larger?

January 30 2025, by Syed Khawar Bukhari, 16 min reading time

When it comes to style staples, there’s one item that stands the test of time—the leather jacket. Whether you’re rocking a vintage biker look or pairing it with a sleek dress, a leather jacket adds an edge to any outfit. But here’s the big question that leaves many scratching their heads in the fitting room—Should you buy a leather jacket a size larger?

We’re about to dig into this dilemma. From fit and comfort to durability, I’ll break it down so you can find your perfect “second-skin” leather jacket. Stick around; by the end of this blog, you’ll shop with confidence (and won’t end up regretting your choice!).

Why Fit Matters for a Leather Jacket

Your leather jacket is not just an outer layer; it’s part of your identity. Getting the right fit isn’t just about style—it’s about movement, comfort, and having something that feels like it was made for you.

Types of Leather Jacket Fits

Before we talk about whether to go up a size, let's quickly look at the different fits you might come across in stores.

Slim Fit: Hugs your body closely and works well with minimal layers. Perfect for a modern, tailored look.
Regular Fit: Balances structure and room, giving you flexibility to layer a thicker sweater underneath.
Relaxed Fit: Looser throughout, often chosen for oversized or streetwear-inspired looks.

Now, imagine buying a slim-fit jacket a size too small—ouch, restricting much? Or a relaxed fit that’s too huge, making you feel like you’re swimming in leather? Neither situation is ideal. This is why getting it right is essential.

Pros and Cons of Buying a Leather Jacket a Size Larger

It’s tempting to size up, especially if you feel unsure about what’s “too snug” vs. comfortably fitted. But, does sizing up really solve the problem?

Pros of Going a Size Larger

Room for Layering: Winters can get icy! A slightly larger jacket allows you to wear chunky sweaters or hoodies underneath without feeling like a stuffed sausage.
Comfortable Movement: If you’re someone who hates the feeling of restricted arms or shoulders, sizing up gives you that freedom.
Grows with You: Admit it—our bodies change over time. A bit of extra room future-proofs your jacket for years to come.
The “Oversized” Trend: An oversized leather jacket is all the rage in streetwear—a size larger could double as a fashionable statement piece.

Cons of Sizing Up

Compromised Shape: A leather jacket isn’t structured like a parka. A size too big can make it look boxy or sloppy instead of sleek.
Leather Loosens Over Time: Here’s a secret—leather stretches as you wear it. Even snug shearling jackets will loosen up with time. Buying too big might leave you with a shapeless mess.
Lose the Tailored Look: Think about classic bikers jacket and leather bomber jackets—they’re meant to look sharp, not baggy. A larger size can ruin that effect.

Leather Jackets and the “Break-In” Factor

Did you know leather changes over time? That snug jacket that feels stiff on day 1 could become buttery soft after a few wears. Unlike synthetic materials, leather develops a personalized fit with regular use—kind of like your favorite pair of jeans.

A true-to-size leather jacket allows for this natural break-in process. It’s worth keeping in mind that a jacket that feels slightly snug when you try it on might actually become your best-fitting jacket after breaking it in.

When Should You Size Up?

Alright, so when’s sizing up actually a good idea? You’re in luck—I’ve put together a list of considerations to guide you.

Cold Weather Buff: If you live in places where winter hits hard and you like to layer up, go ahead and size up. A larger fit lets you comfortably wear heavier layers underneath.
Room for Growth: If you’re buying a leather jacket for a teenager or anticipate body changes, sizing up can be a practical choice.
Oversized Style: Love that laid-back streetwear vibe? Pair a slightly oversized leather jacket with skinny jeans and chunky boots for a trendy look.
Casual Over Tailored: If you want a relaxed, casual vibe and don’t care about the fitted look, sizing up can work in your favor.

Tips for Finding the Perfect Fit

Shopping for a leather jacket can feel overwhelming, and sometimes fitting rooms don’t give you the full picture. These tips will make the whole process smoother.

1. Check the Shoulders

Shoulder seams should align with the edge of your shoulders. If the seams droop down, the jacket is too big. Too tight? You won’t be able to move your arms comfortably.

2. Test for Mobility

Stretch, reach up, give a little shimmy—can you move your arms freely? If a jacket restricts movement, consider sizing up—but just slightly!

3. Layer Up During Fitting

When you’re in the store, wear what you’ll likely pair with the jacket most often. Trying it on with a thin tee won’t help if you plan to wear it over sweaters later on.

4. Feel the Snugness

A new leather jacket should feel snug—like a second skin—but not uncomfortably tight. Remember, it’ll loosen over time!

5. Hem Length Matters

The jacket shouldn’t hang below your hips, unless you’re intentionally going for a trench-style or oversized look. Above the hipbone keeps things sleek and classic.

FAQs About Leather Jackets

Q1. Should I size up if I’m between sizes?

If you’re between sizes, it’s usually better to size up for comfort. But keep in mind the “break-in” factor of leather—it might be worth trying both sizes and consulting the store staff.

Q2. How do I care for my leather jacket to maintain its shape?

Store your leather jacket on a wide hanger to avoid shoulder stretching. Also, keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture to avoid any unnecessary loosening.

Q3. Can I tailor a leather jacket if it’s too big?

Yes! Leather jackets can be tailored to refine the fit, but it can be costly. It’s better to get the right size from the start.

Final Thoughts

Should you buy a leather jacket a size larger? Well, it depends. If you’re planning to layer, love oversized styles, or want more flexibility, sizing up might be for you. But if you’re after that sleek, tailored fit, sticking to your true size—knowing that leather naturally loosens over time—is usually the way to go.

When in doubt, try it on, test for comfort, and imagine it as part of your wardrobe. A leather jacket is an investment piece, and finding the perfect fit ensures you’ll treasure it for years to come.

Looking to shop for a leather jacket that fits just right? Check out our guide to the best leather jackets.

And if you’ve got a leather jacket story—you know, that one time you bought one online and it didn’t fit—share it in the comments below! We’d love to hear it!